Online School Testing Project Set to Launch Nationwide

An initiative that tests the knowledge of learners via an online system will be launched at schools in other provinces after good results were obtained from a trial run held in Vientiane province last Friday.

The scheme is being rolled out by the Ministry of Education and Sports’ Educational Standards and Quality Assurance Centre (ESQAC) and the FPT University of Vietnam.

ESQAC Director Mr Vanxay Noraseng explained the project after the ministry agreed to partner with the FPT University on the development of a database for education quality management at every level of the state and private sector.

An agreement on developing a database for education quality management was signed by the two parties in 2014.

In an interview with Vientiane Times yesterday, Mr Vanhxay said the project would be officially launched at the beginning of 2017.

The project also includes development of a knowledge test through online systems, he added.

Information technology is very important for the education sector. The management of educational management databases and online teaching and learning sites are of great significance, he said.

The trial of the project in Vientiane province aims to develop quality education in Laos and also to provide a data-information platform for teachers, students and administrators.

Also on Friday, ESQAC launched the website http://www.laolympic.la, aiming to test the knowledge of learners online, and to promote the use of technology in teaching and learning at all levels.

Mr Vanhxay said that initially the website will only allow students to test in two subjects but will later be upgraded to test in other subjects. The tests cover levels from primary to university.

The project serves to enhance cooperation between ESQAC and the FPT University through support from Lao Star Telecom (Unitel).

Before the official launch next year, ESQAC will train officials how to use the software as well as further refining it.

After that they will present it to the ministry along with handbooks on the use of the database and website.

During the development of the database and website, Lao Star Telecom and FPT will provide free internet access to the programme. The internet system is registered with the Lao National Internet Centre.

The website will be available in provinces throughout the country, serving primary and secondary schools as well as adult learners free of charge, ESQAC reported.